As of April 3, the Philippines has welcomed almost 1.7 million visitors this year—including 91,671 from Canada.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) sees a significant boost in Philippines’ leisure and business tourism with the start of Air Canada’s direct flight connecting Manila and Vancouver.
The passengers of the maiden direct Vancouver to Manila flight arrived at NAIA Terminal 3 Gate 116 on April 3 at 6:04 am with the DOT preparing a festive welcome, including performances. At the ceremonial cake- and ribbon-cutting were Tourism Secretary Frasco and key officials, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon, Air Canada Managing Director Rocky Lo, and Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman.
Anticipated to fly three times a week, Air Canada, according to the DOT’s Office of Market Development, will provide a total annual capacity of 57,216 seats, averaging 4,768 seats per month between Vancouver and Manila.
“Canada, being home to nearly one million people of Filipino descent, is one of the largest diasporas globally,” Frasco said. “This inaugural Air Canada flight will further foster cultural connections between our countries and drive economic growth. Today’s inaugural flight represents more than just mere travel, for it symbolizes a powerful bridge connecting our countries closer than ever before. It provides Filipino-Canadians easier access to their homeland and, at the same time, presents Canadians with enormous opportunities to explore our country’s natural wonders, our rich biodiversity, our vibrant culture, and our proud heritage.”
According to DOT data, as of April 3, 2025, the Philippines has welcomed 1,682,531 visitors, including 91,671 from Canada. In 2024, Canada ranked sixth in tourist arrivals to the Philippines, with 269,300 visitors contributing 304.32 million USD to the local economy. This represents a 6.80% growth in arrivals from Canada compared to the previous year.
The introduction of Air Canada’s non-stop flights between Vancouver and Manila is expected to reduce travel time, cutting the previous 20-hour journey down to just 12-14 hours, making it even more convenient for both leisure and business travelers. “The launch of this nonstop is to significantly boost leisure and business tourism, further contributing directly to our local economies and enhancing the livelihood of our communities,” Secretary Frasco added.
Noting that “The Philippines is one of the fast growing markets,”Air Canada Managing Director Rocky Lo also expressed enthusiasm about the new route. “The flight has solidified Air Canada’s position as the North American airline, serving the most non-stop destinations in this region, supporting Canada’s Inter Pacific strategy,” Lo shared.
The new route between Manila and Vancouver is also a significant addition to Air Canada’s presence in the Asia-Pacific. Lo shared that Filipino students represent the third largest overseas student population in Canada, underscoring the importance of direct flights for both educational and cultural exchanges.
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Canada’s Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman noted that among the inspirations for the new route are “new and economic reforms in the Philippines that will drive business opportunities.” He added, “Recognizing the importance of this route and investing in a service that meets the growing demand for travel between North America and the Philippines. This flight not only reflects the deep ties between our nations, but it will also opens new opportunities for trade, tourism and overall people-to-people connections”, the Ambassador stressed.
For Filipino tourists flying to Vancouver, their itinerary must include one of the most popular tourist attractions of Vancouver: Stanley Park, a massive, scenic park with biking trails, beaches, and even a world-class aquarium. For Instagram-worthy views, the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a must—it’s a walk through the treetops that feels like an escape into a fairytale forest.
Then there’s Grouse Mountain, where you’ll find breathtaking views, hiking trails, and even skiing in the winter. If you’re more into relaxed, garden-style vibes, Queen Elizabeth Park and VanDusen Botanical Garden are both beautiful spots to unwind. There’s also Granville Island, where you can snack your way through a public market and explore local art and crafts.
For beach lovers, English Bay offers a perfect sunset scene, while Canada Place and the waterfront area give you that postcard-perfect look at the harbor and mountains. And if you’re into culture, don’t miss the Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver Art Gallery.
